Response: Labour and Liberal Democrat criminal justice policy reviews
Both the Labour Party and Liberal Democrats have recently consulted on their criminal justice policy. We responded to the consultations setting out our position and recommendations around priority areas of the youth justice system.
In particular, we would like to see:
The minimum age of criminal responsibility significantly increased
A commitment to maximise diversion and minimise contact with the criminal justice system, in lieu of welfare-based service provision
Investment in community-based, child-centred responses to children in trouble with the law
A significant reduction in numbers of children deprived of their liberty, and the closure of all penal custodial establishments
Criminal records and anonymity law reformed to promote reintegration
Child-centred courts that promote understanding and participation
Full Report: Response to Criminal Justice System policy review *
*Please note, this response was published under our previous name of the Standing Committee for Youth Justice (SCYJ)